Avian influenza is a viral disease of several avian species in various parts of the world. The disease canrange from asymptomatic and mild to hyperacute and fatal. Avian influenza occurs infrequently in

humans

. It is seen as an occupational hazard, primarily to those associated with varied activities in thepoultry industry; employees in abattoirs, vaccinators, laboratory staff and other personnel. In most casesthe clinical picture is that of

conjunctivitis

with rare systemic reactions. Avian influenza is reportabledisease in many countries. It has to be confirmed by virus isolation.